RESIDENTS in Redditch are being encouraged to kickstart their fitness journeys by joining a Couch to 5k course this month, writes Erica Murphy-Hogg.
The nine-week courses, which began this week, are designed for complete beginners to help them get into running and, in the process, provides them a great opportunity for those looking to be more active.
There is no need to book and anyone is welcome to come to any session.
Sessions are held at 9.30am each Sunday, 7.30pm on Mondays and 7.30pm on Wednesdays at The Abbey Stadium Track. Other sessions take place at 9.30am on Fridays in Woodrow (meet at The Hub, Woodrow Centre) and 9.30am at the Redditch, Cricket, Hockey, Rugby and Squash Club.
Redditch Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Recreation, Coun Juliet Barker Smith, said: “It’s never too late to have a go at something new, and I’m finding, especially in later life, keeping fit and staying flexible is absolutely essential.
“Giving residents across the borough the opportunity to get active, pick up a new hobby, and become part of a community is fantastic.
“We are continually grateful to all the Run Leaders who volunteer to facilitate these sessions which consistently prove popular.”
All of the courses are led by run leaders who hold official qualifications from England Athletics and the course is fully endorsed by the NHS.
People can attend whichever sessions they want to but run leaders do advise people to complete three sessions-a-week to maximise progress and reach their goal of running 5k.
The programme is suitable for new runner from the ages of 12 upwards and any children must have a guardian running beside them at all times.
Many graduates from local Couch to 5k groups go on to join local running groups including Parkrun and even become the next run leaders.
Couch to 5k thanked all of its run clubs, STARS Redditch, Redditch Community Runners and Kingfisher Harriers for their continued support.
Visit: Couch to 5k or call the Sports Development Team on 01527 881404 or [email protected] for further information on how to get involved.
